5/7/2011 - JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. -- The Andrews Attic (formerly the Airman's Attic) and Andrews Thrift Shop re-opened Thursday after several weeks of work and more than $500,000 were spent renovating the building that houses both entities.

The project was spearheaded by the First Sergeants Council with help from agencies both on and off base, including the chapel and members of the Greater Prince George's Business Roundtable.

"It was a conglomeration of efforts, driven by the first sergeants," said Master Sgt. Phillip T. Monk, 11th Wing Staff first sergeant. "The local community really supported our efforts."

Those efforts came in several forms -- from monetary support to donated shelving units. Some of the major renovations included 16,000 square feet of new roofing, 12,000 sq. ft. of new ceiling tiles, 12,000 sq. ft. of new floor tile to replace the aged carpet, new lighting and fresh paint.

The Andrews Attic is a source of free, gently-used household items for ranks E-5 and below, regardless of service, according to Andrews Attic manager Tesha Black.

The shop sells donated goods and consignment items and returns the profit into the local community, in the form of scholarships for military family members as well as donations to a host of other entities on base.

Both entities rely heavily on volunteer support and donations.

"Volunteers are the heart and soul of (these) operation(s)," said Mr. Frosch.

The shops are located at 1676 Brookley Ave, and hours for both shops are Monday and Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.